U.S. patent number 8,216,150 [Application Number 12/440,379] was granted by the patent office on 2012-07-10 for ultrasound probe.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba, Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation. Invention is credited to Hideki Kosaku, Takashi Kubota, Yutaka Oonuki, Akinori Shigihara.
United States Patent |
8,216,150 |
Kosaku , et al. |
July 10, 2012 |
Ultrasound probe
Abstract
The present invention provides an ultrasound probe in which bend
of a tip part is fixed only in a state that it is not bent in a
direction orthogonal to a direction in which ultrasonic waves are
emitted from an ultrasound generation source. To be specific, the
ultrasound probe includes: a rod-like tip part inserted into a body
cavity; an ultrasound emitting part placed at the tip part to emit
ultrasonic waves to a subject; a first bending part for bending the
tip part in a direction substantially orthogonal to the emission
direction; and a fixing part configured to, when the first bending
part is not bending the tip part toward any side of the direction
orthogonal to the emission direction, lock a rotation member of the
first bending part and inhibit the first bending part from bending
the tip part in the direction substantially orthogonal to the
emission direction.
Inventors: |
Kosaku; Hideki (Nasushiobara,
JP), Shigihara; Akinori (Otawara, JP),
Kubota; Takashi (Nasushiobara, JP), Oonuki;
Yutaka (Otawara, JP) |
Assignee: |
Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
(Tokyo, JP)
Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation (Otawara-shi,
JP)
|
Family
ID: |
41064918 |
Appl.
No.: |
12/440,379 |
Filed: |
February 18, 2009 |
PCT
Filed: |
February 18, 2009 |
PCT No.: |
PCT/JP2009/000662 |
371(c)(1),(2),(4) Date: |
March 06, 2009 |
PCT
Pub. No.: |
WO2009/113245 |
PCT
Pub. Date: |
September 17, 2009 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20100179431 A1 |
Jul 15, 2010 |
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Foreign Application Priority Data
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Mar 10, 2008 [JP] |
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2008-059732 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
600/462; 600/146;
600/148 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61B
8/12 (20130101); A61B 8/0883 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A61B
8/14 (20060101); A61B 1/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;600/400,423,433-435,437,450,459,462,463,466,467,471,585,101 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
Primary Examiner: Chen; Tse
Assistant Examiner: Park; Patricia
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Oblon, Spivak, McClelland, Maier
& Neustadt, L.L.P.
Claims
The invention claimed is:
1. An ultrasound probe, comprising: a rod-like tip part configured
to penetrate into a body cavity; an ultrasound emitting part placed
at the tip part to emit ultrasonic waves to a subject; a first
bending part configured to bend the tip part in a direction
substantially orthogonal to the emission direction; and a fixing
part configured to, when the first bending part is not bending the
tip part toward any side of the direction orthogonal to the
emission direction, lock the first bending part and inhibit the
first bending part from bending the tip part in the direction
substantially orthogonal to the emission direction; the first
bending part includes: a rotation member rotatable around an axis;
and two wires, whose one ends are connected to the rotation member
at positions facing across a center of the axis, respectively, and
whose other ends are fixed to the tip part at positions facing
across a center of the tip part in the direction substantially
orthogonal to the emission direction, respectively; and the fixing
part includes a fixing member placed at a position fixed with
respect to a rotation direction of the rotation member; one of the
rotation member and the fixing member includes a concave, and the
other includes a convex; and in a state that the first bending part
is not bending the tip part toward any side of the direction
orthogonal to the emission direction, the fixing part locks the
rotation member by fit of the concave and the convex; wherein the
rotation member is provided with a concave and the fixing member is
provided with a convex, the ultrasound probe further comprising: a
first elastic member configured to press the fixing member from the
rotation member side, wherein the fixing part includes a lock
mechanism disposed to a rear side of the fixing member opposite to
a plane with the convex disposed so as to be movable in the
direction orthogonal to the rotation direction, the lock mechanism
being configured to compress the elastic member when pressed to
stop and lock the rotation member in a state that the convex and
the concave fit each other, and configured to release the stop by a
next press to separate the convex from the concave by a force of
the elastic member and release the lock of the rotation member; and
further comprising: an axial tube member piercing through the
center of the axis of the rotation member to fix the fixing member
with respect to the rotation direction, wherein: the lock mechanism
includes: a second rotation member in contact with the fixing
member to rotate around the axial tube member; a pressing member
placed so as to fit into a rear plane of the second rotation member
opposite to a plane in contact with the fixing member; and a holder
member fixed to the axial tube member to cover the pressing member
and the second rotation member; the second rotation member and the
pressing member each include a protrusion on a plane parallel to
the axial tube direction in contact with the holder member; the
holder member includes shallow grooves and deep grooves disposed
along the axial tube direction, alternately in the rotation
direction, on a plane parallel to the axial tube direction in
contact with the pressing member and the second rotation member;
the protrusion of the pressing member is to be housed into the deep
groove; and the second rotation member rotates around the axial
tube member by friction when pressed, and the protrusion of the
second rotation member is housed into the next groove of the holder
member.
2. An ultrasound probe, comprising: a rod-like tip part configured
to penetrate into a body cavity; an ultrasound emitting part placed
at the tip part to emit ultrasonic waves to a subject; a first
bending part configured to bend the tip part in a direction
substantially orthogonal to the emission direction; and a fixing
part configured to, when the first bending part is not bending the
tip part toward any side of the direction orthogonal to the
emission direction, lock the first bending part and inhibit the
first bending part from bending the tip part in the direction
substantially orthogonal to the emission direction; the first
bending part includes: a rotation member rotatable around an axis;
and two wires, whose one ends are connected to the rotation member
at positions facing across a center of the axis, respectively, and
whose other ends are fixed to the tip part at positions facing
across a center of the tip part in the direction substantially
orthogonal to the emission direction, respectively; and the fixing
part includes a fixing member placed at a position fixed with
respect to a rotation direction of the rotation member; one of the
rotation member and the fixing member includes a concave, and the
other includes a convex; in a state that the first bending part is
not bending the tip part toward any side of the direction
orthogonal to the emission direction, the fixing part locks the
rotation member by fit of the concave and the convex; a protruding
direction of the convex disposed to one of the fixing member and
the rotation member and an opening direction of the concave
disposed to the other are directions orthogonal to the rotation
direction; the convex and the concave are positioned facing each
other when the first bending part is not bending the tip part; the
fixing member is capable of moving close to and away from the
rotation member; and the convex fits into the concave when the
fixing member moves close to the rotation member; wherein the
rotation member includes a concave and the fixing member includes a
convex, the ultrasound probe further comprising: a first elastic
member configured to press the fixing member from the rotation
member side, wherein the fixing part includes a lock mechanism
disposed to a rear side of the fixing member opposite to a plane
with the convex disposed so as to be movable in the direction
orthogonal to the rotation direction, the lock mechanism being
configured to compress the elastic member when pressed to stop and
lock the rotation member in a state that the convex and the concave
fit each other, and configured to release the stop by a next press
to separate the convex from the concave by a force of the elastic
member and release the lock of the rotation member; and further
comprising: an axial tube member piercing through the center of the
axis of the rotation member to fix the fixing member with respect
to the rotation direction, wherein: the lock mechanism includes: a
second rotation member in contact with the fixing member to rotate
around the axial tube member; a pressing member placed so as to fit
into a rear plane of the second rotation member opposite to a plane
in contact with the fixing member; and a holder member fixed to the
axial tube member to cover the pressing member and the second
rotation member; the second rotation member and the pressing member
each include a protrusion on a plane parallel to the axial tube
direction in contact with the holder member; the holder member
includes shallow grooves and deep grooves disposed along the axial
tube direction, alternately in the rotation direction, on a plane
parallel to the axial tube direction in contact with the pressing
member and the second rotation member; the protrusion of the
pressing member is to be housed into the deep groove; and the
second rotation member rotates around the axial tube member by
friction when pressed, and the protrusion of the second rotation
member is housed into the next groove of the holder member.
3. The ultrasound probe according to claim 1, wherein: the fitting
planes of the second rotation member and the pressing member facing
each other are planes of a triangular corrugated shape; the
protrusion of the second rotation member is formed by making part
of the plane of the triangular corrugated shape protrude outside
from a periphery of the second rotation member, the part of the
plane of the triangular corrugated shape having a slope deeply cut
in toward the pressing member with respect to the rotation
direction; an edge of the groove of the holder member closer to the
second rotation member tilts in a same direction as the protrusion
of the second rotation member; and the second rotation member
rotates by friction of the triangular corrugated planes, the
protrusion of the second rotation member and the tilt of the groove
of the holder member.
4. The ultrasound probe according to claim 2, wherein: the fitting
planes of the second rotation member and the pressing member facing
each other are planes of a triangular corrugated shape; the
protrusion of the second rotation member is formed by making part
of the plane of the triangular corrugated shape protrude outside
from a periphery of the second rotation member, the part of the
plane of the triangular corrugated shape having a slope deeply cut
in toward the pressing member with respect to the rotation
direction; an edge of the groove of the holder member closer to the
second rotation member tilts in a same direction as the protrusion
of the second rotation member; and the second rotation member
rotates by friction of the triangular corrugated planes, the
protrusion of the second rotation member and the tilt of the groove
of the holder member.
5. The ultrasound probe according to claim 3, wherein the second
rotation member rotates by friction of the triangular corrugated
planes when the second rotation member travels toward the fixing
member along the axial tube member and the protrusion comes out of
the groove, and rotates by friction of the protrusion of the second
rotation member and the tilt of the groove of the holder member
when the second rotation member travels toward the pressing member
along the axial tube member.
6. The ultrasound probe according to claim 4, wherein the second
rotation member rotates by friction of the triangular corrugated
planes when the second rotation member travels toward the fixing
member along the axial tube member and the protrusion comes out of
the groove, and rotates by friction of the protrusion of the second
rotation member and the tilt of the groove of the holder member
when the second rotation member travels toward the pressing member
along the axial tube member.
7. The ultrasound probe according to claim 5, further comprising a
knock member fixed with the pressing member across the holder
member to press the pressing member toward the fixing member.
8. The ultrasound probe according to claim 6, further comprising a
knock member fixed with the pressing member across the holder
member to press the pressing member toward the fixing member.
9. The ultrasound probe according to claim 7, wherein: the convex
of the fixing member is formed like a rod; and the fixing member
includes: a second elastic member configured to press the convex
toward the rotation member; and a holding member configured to hold
the convex and the second elastic member.
10. The ultrasound probe according to claim 8, wherein: the convex
of the fixing member is formed like a rod; and the fixing member
includes: a second elastic member configured to press the convex
toward the rotation member; and a holding member configured to hold
the convex and the second elastic member.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to an ultrasound probe in an
ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus. More specifically, the present
invention relates to an ultrasound probe inserted through the mouth
to emit ultrasonic waves from inside the esophagus or the stomach
to the heart.
BACKGROUND ART
An ultrasonic diagnosis apparatus is equipped with an ultrasound
probe that emits ultrasonic waves toward a subject by oscillating
an oscillator and receives the ultrasonic waves reflected by the
subject (referred to as an "ultrasound echo" hereinafter) with the
oscillator. A certain type of ultrasound probe is inserted through
the mouth to emit ultrasonic waves from inside the esophagus or the
stomach to the heart and acquire an ultrasound echo for generating
an ultrasonic image of the aorta and the tissue therearound. Such
an ultrasound probe may be referred to as a "transesophageal probe"
hereinafter. An ultrasonic diagnosis method using such an
ultrasound probe is referred to as transesophageal echocardiography
(TEE). The transesophageal probe has an ultrasound transducer
serving as an ultrasound generation source, on one side of a part
inserted into the subject. Ultrasonic waves are emitted from the
ultrasound generation source to a target site to be observed
(simply referred to as a "target site" hereinafter).
An operator like a doctor (simply referred to as an "operator"
hereinafter") needs to change the direction of the ultrasound
generation source of the transesophageal probe so that the
transesophageal probe easily passes through the throat or the
esophagus when inserted.
Moreover, the operator needs to change the direction of the
ultrasound generation source of the esophageal probe so that the
ultrasound generation source emits ultrasonic waves toward the
target site after inserted. Therefore, the esophageal probe has a
structure that can bend the tip part of the inserted part back and
forth as well as right and left. Here, bending forth means bending
the tip part in a direction that ultrasonic waves are emitted from
the ultrasound generation source.
Bending back means bending the tip part in a direction opposite to
the direction that the ultrasonic waves are emitted from the
ultrasound generation source. Bending right and left is bending the
tip part in a direction orthogonal to the direction that the
ultrasonic waves are emitted from the ultrasound generation source.
It is possible to independently execute the bending operation back
and forth as well as right and left, respectively, by using a knob
disposed to an operation part for operating the esophageal probe.
In this structure, when the knob is rotated, a wire placed inside
the inserted part is pulled and the tip part is bent in a bending
structure part disposed near the tip part.
Besides, such an esophageal probe is proposed that has a mechanism
for locking the bend independently or conjunctionally in the
respective bending directions (e.g., refer to Patent Document
1).
Patent Document 1
Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication JP-A
7-250836
DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION
Problem that the Invention is to Solve
However, in the case of using the esophageal probe, it is
impossible to visually check the tip position when the tip part is
inserted in the subject. Therefore, in the case of using the
ultrasound probe having the mechanism for locking the bending part
as shown in Patent Document 1, when the tip part is fixed while
being bent back and forth as well as right and left, the operator
may insert or remove the esophageal probe without noticing that the
tip part is locked in the bent state. In this case, there is a fear
that the bent tip part damages an insertion path. Since an
esophageal probe without the mechanism for locking the bending part
will not be locked in the bent state, there is no risk that the
bent tip part damages the insertion path. However, the esophageal
probe without the locking mechanism may unintentionally bend back
and forth as well as right and left when inserted, which may make
it hard to insert the probe.
The present invention is made in view of these circumstances, and
an object of the present invention is to provide an ultrasound
probe in which, only in a state that a tip part is not bent in a
direction orthogonal to a direction that ultrasound waves are
emitted from an ultrasound generation source, the tip part can be
fixed in that state.
Means for Solving the Problem
In order to achieve the above object, an ultrasound probe according
to Claim 1 includes a tip part, an ultrasound emitting part, a
first bending part and a fixing part as described below. The tip
part is a rod-like member inserted into the body cavity. The
ultrasound emitting part is placed on the tip part to emit
ultrasonic waves toward a subject.
The first bending part bends the tip part in a direction
substantially orthogonal to the emission direction. In a state that
the first bending part is not bending the tip part in the direction
orthogonal to the emission direction, the fixing part locks the
first bending part to inhibit the first bending part from bending
the tip part in the direction substantially orthogonal to the
emission direction.
Effect of the Invention
The ultrasound probe according to Claim 1 can lock the first
bending part to inhibit the first bending part from bending
rightward and leftward only in a state that the tip part is not
bent rightward or leftward. Thus, even if the tip part of the
ultrasound probe inserted into the subject is inserted or removed
in a state that the tip part of the ultrasound probe cannot be
seen, it is possible to reduce the risk of damaging the insertion
path, i.e., the body cavity of the subject.
Further, since it is possible to lock in a back-and-forth direction
of the tip part in a state that the ultrasound generation source
faces the target site, it is possible to accurately emit ultrasonic
waves to the target site.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an ultrasound probe according to
the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view schematically showing a fixing part
according to a first embodiment taken from one direction.
FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view schematically showing the fixing
part according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the fixing part
according to the first embodiment taken from the other
direction.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the peripheries of a second
rotation member and a pressing member exposed by displacing a
holder member.
FIG. 6A is a developed view of the periphery of the second rotation
member according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 6B is a plan view of the second rotation member according to
the first embodiment taken from the pressing member side.
FIG. 7 is a developed view of the periphery of the pressing
member.
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the holder member taken from
below.
FIG. 9 is a developed view of a plane of the holder member in
contact with the pressing member and the second rotation
member.
FIG. 10A is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member,
the pressing member and the second rotation member, with a
protrusion of the second rotation member housed in a groove of the
holder member.
FIG. 10B is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member,
the pressing member and the second rotation member, when the
pressing member has fully moved toward the second rotation member
in a first press.
FIG. 10C is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member,
the pressing member and the second rotation member, when the second
rotation member has moved toward the pressing member and has come
in contact with the protrusion of the holder member in the first
press.
FIG. 10D is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member,
the pressing member and the second rotation member, when the
protrusion of the second rotation member has stopped in a shallow
groove of the holder member in the first press.
FIG. 11A is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member,
the pressing member and the second rotation member, when the
pressing member has moved toward the second rotation member and has
come in contact with mountains of the second rotation member in a
second press.
FIG. 11B is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member,
the pressing member and the second rotation member, when the
pressing member has fully moved toward the second rotation member
in the second press.
FIG. 11C is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member,
the pressing member and the second rotation member, when the second
rotation member has moved toward the pressing member and has come
in contact with the protrusion of the holder member in the second
press.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a fixing part and a bending part
according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the fixing part and the bending
part according to the second embodiment.
DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS AND SYMBOLS
010: operation part 011: vertical-bend knob lock lever 012:
vertical-bend knob 013: horizontal-bend knob 014: case 015:
knob-position marker 016: center-position marker 020: insertion
part 021: guiding hollow tube part 022: bending part 023: tip part
024: ultrasound transducer 100: fixing part 101: knock member 102:
holder member 103: pressing member 104: second rotation member 105:
axial tube member 106: first elastic member 110: fixing member 111:
holding member 112: convex 113: second elastic member 201: rotation
member 202: concave 401: support column
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
First Embodiment
(Entire Configuration)
First, the entire configuration of an ultrasound probe according to
an embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is
a perspective view of the ultrasound probe according to this
embodiment.
The ultrasound probe according to this embodiment includes an
operation part 010 and an insertion part 020, which are shown in
FIG. 1, and also includes a not-shown connector part. Section A
circled in FIG. 1 is a magnified view showing a vertical-bend knob
lock lever 011, a vertical-bend knob 012 and a horizontal-bend knob
013 taken from an arrow W direction.
The insertion part 020 is a part inserted into the body of the
subject. The insertion part 020 includes a guiding hollow tube part
021, a bending part 022, and a tip part 023.
The guiding hollow tube part 021 is composed of a soft member.
Moreover, the guiding hollow tube part 021 is hollow. In the hollow
of the guiding hollow tube part 021 is incorporated a cable for
connecting a transceiver (not shown) of an ultrasound diagnosis
apparatus main body (not shown) and an ultrasound transducer 024 to
transmit electric signals. Moreover, four wires for tilting the tip
part 023, which will be described later, are passed through the
hollow of the guiding hollow tube part 021.
The ultrasound transducer 024 is placed on the tip part 023. This
ultrasound transducer 024 is equivalent to an "ultrasound emitting
part" in the present invention. The ultrasound transducer 024
converts pulse signals transmitted from the transceiver disposed to
the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus main body into ultrasonic waves,
and emits the ultrasonic waves toward a site to be examined of the
subject (simply refer to as a "target site" hereinafter). Further,
the ultrasound transducer 024 receives the ultrasonic waves
reflected by the subject (refer to as an "ultrasound echo"
hereinafter) to convert the ultrasound echo into electric signals
for forming an ultrasonic image and output the electric signals to
the aforementioned transceiver. Further, the four wires passed
through the guiding hollow tube part 021 and bending part 022 are
connected to the tip part 023. The four wires are fixed to the tip
part 023, respectively, at an end in an emission direction of
ultrasonic waves from the ultrasound transducer 024, an end in a
direction opposite to the emission direction of the ultrasonic
waves, and both side ends in a direction orthogonal to the emission
direction of the ultrasonic waves. For convenience of description,
a direction from the operation part 010 to the insertion part 020,
i.e., an arrow X direction will be referred to as a "downward
direction" hereinafter. Moreover, a direction from the insertion
part 020 to the operation part 010, i.e., a direction opposite to
the arrow X direction will be referred to as an "upward direction."
Moreover, an emission direction of ultrasonic waves from the
ultrasound transducer 024, i.e., an arrow Y direction shown in FIG.
1 will be referred to as a "forward direction." Moreover, a
direction opposite to the emission direction of the ultrasonic
waves, i.e., a direction opposite to the arrow Y direction will be
referred to as a "backward direction." Moreover, of directions
orthogonal to the emission direction of ultrasonic waves, an arrow
Z direction will be referred to as a "rightward direction," and a
direction opposite to the arrow Z direction will be referred to as
a "leftward direction." In other words, the four wires are fixed to
the "forward" end, "backward" end, "rightward" end and "leftward"
end of the tip part 023, respectively.
The bending part 022 is composed of a softer material than the
guiding hollow tube part 021. When the wires are pulled and a force
is applied from the wires in one of the forward, backward,
rightward and leftward directions of the tip part 023, the bending
part 022 is bent in the direction of application of the force.
Bending of the bending part 022 tilts the tip part 023 in the
bending direction.
The operation part 010 is a part to control the tilt of the tip
part 023 inserted into the body of the subject. The operation part
010 includes the vertical-bend knob lock lever 011, the
vertical-bend knob 012, the horizontal-bend knob 013, and a case
014. The vertical-bend knob 012 and the wires are equivalent to a
"second bending part" in the present invention, and the
horizontal-bend knob 013 and the wires are equivalent to a "first
bending part" in the present invention.
The vertical-bend knob 012 is attached to the case 014 of the
ultrasound probe so as to be capable of rotating. Further, a
rotatable disk is disposed to the center axis of the vertical-bend
knob 012. As described above, the wires connected to the disk
rotated by the vertical-bend knob 012 and the wires connected to a
disk rotated by the horizontal-bend knob 013 form an angle of 90
degrees (not shown).
When the operator rotates the vertical-bend knob 012, the disk
rotates in response. The wire fixed to the forward end of the tip
part 023 and passed through the bending part 022 and the guiding
hollow tube part 021 is connected to the rightward end of the disk
of the vertical-bend knob 012. The wire fixed to the backward end
of the tip part 023 and passed through the bending part 022 and the
guiding hollow tube part 021 is connected to the leftward end of
the disk of the vertical-bend knob 012. When the vertical-bend knob
012 is rotated clockwise when viewed from the arrow W direction,
the wire connected to the left side of the disk is pulled, the
bending part 022 bends forward, and the tip part 023 tilts
backward. When the vertical-bend knob 012 is rotated
counterclockwise when viewed from the arrow W direction, the wire
connected to the right side is pulled, the bending part 022 bends
backward, and the tip part 023 tilts backward.
The horizontal-bend knob 013 is attached to the case 014 of the
ultrasound probe so as to be capable of rotating. Further, a
rotatable disk is disposed to the horizontal-bend knob 013. When
the operator rotates the horizontal-bend knob 013, the disk rotates
in response. The wire fixed to the rightward end of the tip part
023 and passed through the bending part 022 and the guiding hollow
tube part 021 is connected to the rightward end of the disk of the
horizontal-bend knob 013. The wire fixed to the leftward end of the
tip part 023 and passed through the bending part 022 and the
guiding hollow tube part 021 is connected to the leftward end of
the disk of the horizontal-bend knob 013. When the horizontal-bend
knob 013 is rotated clockwise when viewed from the arrow W
direction, the wire connected to the left side is pulled, the
bending part 022 bends leftward, and the tip part 023 tilts
leftward.
When the horizontal-bend knob 013 is rotated counterclockwise when
viewed from the arrow W direction, the wire connected to the right
side is pulled, the bending part 022 bends rightward, and the tip
part 023 tilts rightward.
The vertical-bend knob lock lever 011 is attached to the case 014
so as to be vertically movable. The vertical-bend knob lock lever
011 stops rotation of the disk of the vertical-bend knob 012 to fix
by sandwiching the disk of the vertical-bend knob 012, for
example.
Each of the disks of the vertical-bend knob 012 and the
horizontal-bend knob 013 is provided with a knob-position marker
015.
The case 014 of the ultrasound probe is provided with a
center-position marker 016. When the knob-position marker 015 of
the disk of the vertical-bend knob 012 coincides with the
center-position marker 016 (as shown in Section A of FIG. 1), the
bending part 022 is not bent backward or forward, and the tip part
023 is not tilted backward or forward. When the knob-position
marker 015 of the disk of the horizontal-bend knob 013 coincides
with the center-position marker 016 (as shown in Section A of FIG.
1), the bending part 022 is not bent rightward or leftward, and the
tip part 023 is not tilted rightward or leftward. In this
embodiment, the knob-position marker 015 and the center-position
marker 016 are disposed in order to make it easy to grasp the state
of the tip part 023. However, the ultrasound probe of this
embodiment is capable of operating without these markers.
Further, the ultrasound probe according to this embodiment is
connected to the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus by cable via the
connector part. The electric signals converted from the ultrasound
echo by the ultrasound transducer 024 are conveyed in the cable
passing through the bending part 022, the guiding hollow tube part
021, the case 014 and the connector part, and outputted to the
transceiver part of the ultrasound diagnosis apparatus.
(Configuration of Fixing Part of Horizontal-Bend Knob)
Next, a mechanism for locking the disk of the horizontal-bend knob
013 to inhibit rotation thereof will be described in detail with
reference to FIGS. 2, 3 and 4. FIG. 2 is a perspective view
schematically showing the fixing part according to this embodiment
taken from one direction. FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view
schematically showing the fixing part according to this embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a perspective view schematically showing the fixing part
according to this embodiment taken from the other direction.
FIGS. 2, 3 and 4 schematically show Section A of FIG. 1 in the
magnified state. The disk of the horizontal-bend knob 013 in FIG. 1
corresponds to a rotation member 201 in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4. Moreover,
the disk of the vertical-bend knob 012 to which the wires for
tilting the tip part 023 are attached is a disk 300 in FIGS. 2, 3
and 4. For convenience of description, an arrow P direction shown
in FIGS. 2 and 3 will be referred to as the "downward direction"
hereinafter. A direction opposite to the arrow P direction will be
referred to as the "upward direction."
An axial tube member 105 is a rod-like member. The axial tube
member 105 is fixed to the case 104.
As shown in FIG. 4, the knock member 101 is coupled to the pressing
member 103, which will be described later, by three support columns
401. As shown in FIG. 3, the support columns 401 are pierced
through the holder member 102 and fixed to the pressing member
103.
The knock member 101 is capable of vertically moving along the
axial tube member 105. When moving downward, the knock member 101
can move until coming in contact with the holder member 102. That
is to say, the knock member 101 can move a distance L1 shown in
FIG. 3.
The lower plane, which is a plane in contact with the second
rotation member 104, of the pressing member 103 has a shape that
fits with a triangular wave pattern (refer to as "mountains and
valleys" hereinafter) of the second rotation member 104, i.e., has
similar mountains and valleys as the upper plane of the second
rotation member 104. FIG. 5 is a perspective view showing the
peripheries of the second rotation member 104 and the pressing
member 103 exposed by displacing the holder member 102. Moreover,
the pressing member 103 has a protrusion 502 on a plane (refer to
as a "periphery" hereinafter) opposite to a place facing the axial
tube member 105. The pressing member 103 directly receives a press
by the knock member 101 via the support columns 401 and vertically
moves along the axial tube member 105. Therefore, the pressing
member 103 vertically moves the distance L1 along the axial tube
member 105 in the same manner as the knock member 101.
FIG. 7 is a developed view of the periphery of the pressing member
103. Black portions are the protrusions 502. As shown in FIG. 7,
the protrusion 502 is formed by protruding the central portion of a
mountain portion 701, which is a portion forming a single mountain
(simply referred to as a "mountain portion" hereinafter) in the
mountains and valleys on the periphery of the pressing member 103.
The protrusion 502 may be placed so that the side of the protrusion
502 in the rotation direction (arrow S direction) of the second
rotation member 104 is located between the peak of the mountain
portion 701 and a side 702 of the mountain portion 701, i.e.,
located in a distance 704. As shown in FIG. 10A, the protrusion 502
is housed in a groove 802 of the holder member 102 described later.
The protrusion 502 may have any shape as far as it having a shape
with enough width to be housed in the groove 802 of the holder
member 102. The protrusion 502 is housed in the groove of the
holder member 102, whereby the pressing member 103 is inhibited
from rotationally moving around the axial tube member 105.
That is to say, the pressing member 103 is fixed with respect to a
direction orthogonal to the axial tube member 105. Thus, it is
preferred that the protrusion 502 has a width that is as close to
the width of the groove as possible and that allows free vertical
movement in the groove.
Although a plurality of protrusions 502 are disposed in order to
securely inhibit the pressing member 103 from rotating in this
embodiment, it is enough to dispose at least one protrusion 502.
Since the pressing member 103 vertically moves the distance L1 as
described above, the protrusion 502 also vertically moves the
distance L1.
The rotation member 201 is equivalent to the disk attached to the
axial center of the horizontal-bend knob 013. The axial tube member
105 is pierced through the center of the rotation axis of the
rotation member 201. The rotation member 201 is placed so as to
rotate around the axial tube member 105. Moreover, the rotation
member 201 is fixed so as not to move in the vertical direction.
Further, the rotation member 201 is provided with a concave 202,
which is a vertical through hole.
Although the concave 202 is a through hole in this embodiment, the
concave 202 may be a dent that is opened on the side facing a
fixing member 110 but not pierced. Wires are connected to the
downward end of the rotation member 201. The wires extend in a wire
direction Q (refer to FIG. 3) to be connected to the rightward and
leftward ends of the tip part 023 in FIG. 1. Rotation of the
rotation member 201 pulls the wires, and rightward and leftward
bend of the bending part 022 tilts the tip part 023 rightward and
leftward. That is to say, when the rotation member 201 is fixed and
inhibited from rotating, the tip part 023 cannot tilt rightward or
leftward.
The fixing part 100, as shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4, includes a knock
member 101, a holder member 102, a pressing member 103, a second
rotation member 104, and a fixing member 110.
The fixing member 110 includes a holding member 111, a convex 112,
and a second elastic member 113.
The convex 112 has a rod-like shape. The convex 112 has a diameter
to fit into the concave 202. When the bending part 022 is not bent
rightward or leftward and the tip part 023 is not tilted rightward
or leftward, the convex 112 faces the concave 202.
The holding member 111 is in contact with the axial tube member
105. The holding member 111 is placed so as to be vertically
movable along the axial tube member 105. Moreover, the holding
member 111 fixed with respect to a direction orthogonal to the
axial tube member 105 (the rotation direction of the rotation
member 201). Specifically, a protrusion is disposed to a plane of
the holding member 111 in contact with the axial tube member 105,
and a vertical groove for housing the protrusion is disposed to the
axial tube member 105, for example. Such a configuration allows the
holding member 111 to vertically move along the axial tube member
105, but fixes the holding member 111 so as not to rotate around
the axial tube member 105. As described later, when the operator
presses the knock member 101 downward, the holding member 111
directly receives a force via the support columns 401, the pressing
member 103 and the second rotation member 104, and moves downward,
whereby the holding member 111 moves the distance L1 downward along
the axial tube member 105 in the same manner as the knock member
101. A distance L3 when the holding member 111 is fully away from
the rotation member 201 (when the protrusion 501 of the second
rotation member 104 is housed in the groove 802 of the holder
member 102 as shown in FIG. 10A described later: FIG. 10A is a view
showing a fixing state of the holder member 102, the pressing
member 103 and the second rotation member 104 with the protrusion
501 of the second rotation member 104 housed in the groove 802 of
the holder member 102) is longer than the distance L1.
Consequently, the holding member 111 does not come in contact with
the rotation member 201 before the knock member 101 comes in
contact with the holder member 102.
The holding member 111 has a hole to house the convex 112.
Between the hole of the holding member 111 and the convex 112, a
second elastic member 113 for pressing the convex 112 in the
protrusion direction is placed. The second elastic member 113
presses the convex 112 downward. Moreover, the hole of the holding
member 111 is provided with a mechanism that prevents the convex
112 from slipping off the hole. This mechanism can be configured
by, for example, disposing a protrusion to the periphery of the
convex 112 closer to the second elastic member 113, forming the
hole of the holding member 111 so as to have a size including the
protrusion, and configuring the opening of the hole so as to allow
the convex 112 to pass through and so as to catch the protrusion.
The hole of the holding member 111 is positioned in a place that,
when the convex 112 fits into the concave 202, the bending part 022
of FIG. 1 is not bent in the horizontal direction and the tip part
023 is not tilted in the horizontal direction. Therefore, the
convex 112 fits into the concave 202 only when the bending part 022
is not bent in the horizontal direction and the tip part 023 is not
tilted in the horizontal direction, whereby the rotation member 201
is locked so as not to rotate.
A distance L2 between the convex 112 and the concave 202 when the
holding member 111 is fully away from the rotation member 201 is
shorter than a distance that the holding member 111 moves before
coming close to the position fully away from the rotation member
201 and stopping (a distance L6 that the protrusion 501 of the
second rotation member 104 moves before stopping in the groove 801
of the holder member 102 as shown in FIG. 10D described later: FIG.
10D is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member 102, the
pressing member 103 and the second rotation member 104 when the
protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 stops in the
groove 801 of the holder member 102). Therefore, when the upward
movement of the second rotation member 104 stops in the groove 801,
the convex 112 fits into the concave 202, whereby the rotation
member 201 is locked and inhibited from rotationally moving in the
direction orthogonal to the axial tube member 105 of the rotation
member 201. Therefore, it is preferred that the distance L2 allows
the convex 112 to fit into the concave 202 when the holding member
111 comes close to the rotation member 201 and stops. Further, the
distance L2 is enough to allow the convex 112 to rotate without
coming in contact with the rotation member 201.
The first elastic member 106 is placed between the rotation member
201 and the fixing member 110. Since the rotation member 201 is
fixed with respect to the vertical direction along the axial tube
member 105, the first elastic member 106 presses the fixing member
110 upward. That is to say, the first elastic member 106 applies a
force that separates the holding member 111 from the rotation
member 201.
The second rotation member 104 is placed so as to be in contact
with the upper part of the holding member 111. The second rotation
member 104 is rotatable around the axial tube member 105. Moreover,
the second rotation member 104 vertically moves along the axial
tube member 105 in contact with the fixing member 110. As described
later, when the operator presses the knock member 101 downward, the
second rotation member 104 directly applies a force via the support
columns 401 and the pressing member 103, and moves downward.
Therefore, the second rotation member 104 vertically moves the
distance L1 along the axial tube member 105 in the same manner as
the knock member 101.
As shown in FIG. 5, the second rotation member 104 has the
protrusion 501 on a plane opposite to the axial tube member 105
(refer to as a "periphery" hereinafter). Further, the upper part of
the second rotation member 104, which is a plane in contact with
the pressing member 103, has a shape of mountains and valleys as
shown in FIG. 5.
FIG. 6A is a developed view of the periphery of the second rotation
member 104 according to this embodiment. FIG. 6B is a plan view of
the second rotation member 104 according to this embodiment taken
from the side of the pressing member 103 (from above). Black
portions shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B are the protrusions 501. As shown
in FIG. 6A, the protrusion 501 is formed by protruding the right
half of a mountain portion 601 in FIG. 6. The mountain portion 601
is a single mountain portion in the mountains and valleys on the
periphery of the second rotation member 104 (simply referred to as
a "mountain portion" hereinafter). A side of the protrusion 501
close to the pressing member 103 has the same tilt as the mountain
of the second rotation member 104.
In this embodiment, the protrusion 501 is disposed to the right
half of the mountain portion 601, whereby the second rotation
member 104 rotates around the axial tube member 105 in an arrow S
direction shown in FIGS. 5 and 6A. In a case where the protrusion
501 is disposed to the left half of the mountain portion 601, the
second rotation member 104 rotates around the axial tube member 105
in a direction opposite to the arrow S direction. Although the
protrusion 501 is formed by simply protruding part of the mountain
portion 601 in this embodiment, the protrusion 501 may have any
shape as far as the plane close to the pressing member 103
protrudes at the same tilt as the mountain portion 601. However,
the width of the protrusion 501 in the arrow S direction needs to
be a length equal to or less than the width of the right half of
the mountain in this embodiment. Thus, the protrusion 501 can be
housed in the groove of the holder member 102. As shown in FIG. 6A,
the mountain portion 601 with the protrusion 501 and a mountain
portion 602 without the protrusion 501 are alternately arranged
around the second rotation member 104. As described before, since
the pressing member 103 moves the distance L1 and the second
rotation member 104 vertically moves the distance L1, the
protrusion 501 on the second rotation member 104 also vertically
moves the distance L1. Every time the second rotation member 104
moves the distance L1 downward and then returns upward, it rotates
for one groove of the holder member 102, which will be described
later.
The holder member 102 has a shape that covers the pressing member
103 and the second rotation member 104 as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. A
plane of the holder member 102 close to the axial tube member 105
in contact with the pressing member 103 and the second rotation
member 104 has grooves as shown in FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a perspective
view showing the holder member 102 taken from below. The holder
member 102 has a shallow groove 801 and a deep groove 802 as shown
in FIG. 8.
Further, the holder member 102 is fixed to the axial tube member
105. That is to say, the holder member 102 does not vertically move
along the axial tube member 105 or rotate in the direction
orthogonal to the axial tube member 105. Further, the holder member
102 has three holes on the upper plane thereof so as to pass the
support columns 401.
FIG. 9 is a developed view showing a plane of the holder member 102
in contact with the pressing member 103 and the second rotation
member 104 (refer to an "inner plane" hereinafter). In FIG. 9, a
protruding portion of the inner plane of the holder member 102 is
shown in gray, and a portion that does not protrude is shown in
white. As shown in FIG. 9, on the inner plane of the holder member
102, the grooves 801 and the grooves 802 are alternately sandwiched
one by one by protrusions 803 in the rotation direction orthogonal
to the axial tube member 105. Moreover, the groove 801 and the
groove 802 are formed by grooving along the axial tube member 105.
Further, the groove 801 and the groove 802 are open downward.
The groove 802 houses the protrusion 502 of the pressing member
103. Here, as shown in FIG. 7, a side 703 of the protrusion 502 is
off a side 702 of a mountain portion 701. Therefore, as shown in
FIG. 10A, the tilt portions of the holder member 102 and the
mountains and valleys of the pressing member 103 are placed off
each other. Moreover, an upper side 804 of the groove 802 shown in
FIG. 9 is closed. Therefore, in a case where the pressing member
103 receives a press from below and moves upward, the protrusion
502 of the pressing member 103 stops moving at the upper side 804
of the groove 802. When the upward movement of the pressing member
103 is thus stopped by the holder member 102, the upward movement
of the knock member 101, the second rotation member 104 and the
fixing member 110 is also stopped in a state where the protrusion
502 is in contact with the upper side 804 of the groove 802.
Moreover, protrusions 803 are placed on both sides of the groove
802, respectively. The protrusion 803 inhibits the protrusion 502
from moving in the direction orthogonal to the axial tube member
105. Further, a length L4 in the groove 802 is longer than the
distance L1 that the protrusion 502 moves. Therefore, as shown in
FIG. 10B, even if the protrusion 502 in contact with the upper side
804 moves the distance L1 downward, it does not come off the groove
802. Here, FIG. 10B is a view showing a fitting state of the holder
member 102, the pressing member 103 and the second rotation member
104 when the pressing member 103 moves toward the rotation member
104 (downward) at the maximum.
As shown in FIG. 9, the lower side of the protrusion 803 is tilted
upward in the rotation direction of the second rotation member 104
(the arrow S direction in FIG. 7). The angle of the tilt is equal
to the angle of tilt of the protrusion 501 on the second rotation
member 104. A length L5 of a side of the protrusion 803 close to
the groove 802 is longer than the distance L1. Therefore, as shown
in FIG. 10B, even if the protrusion 502 in contact with the upper
side 804 moves the distance L1 downward, it does not come off the
groove 802. Further, the length L5 is shorter than a length
obtained by adding the distance L1 and a distance to the upper side
804 from the protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 when
the protrusion 502 is in contact with the upper side 804.
Therefore, as shown in FIG. 10B, when the protrusion 502 moves the
distance L1 from the state where the protrusion 502 stops in
contact with the upper side 804, the protrusion 501 comes outside
the groove 802.
The groove 801 is shallower on the upper side 804 as shown by gray
portion in FIG. 9. This portion will be referred to as a "shallow
portion of the groove 801" hereinafter. The lower side of the
shallow portion of the groove 801 has the same angle as the
protrusion 803, and the protrusion 803 and the shallow portion of
the groove 801 form a continuous tilt. When the upper side of the
protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 comes in contact
with the lower side of the shallow portion of the groove 801, the
upward movement of the protrusion 501 is stopped. When the shallow
portion of the groove 801 comes in contact with the protrusion 501
of the second rotation member 104, as shown in FIG. 10D, the
shallow portion of the groove 801 stops the protrusion 501 at a
position a distance L6 below the position of the protrusion 501 in
FIG. 10A. As shown in FIG. 8, the groove 801 has a more depth than
the protrusion 803 in this embodiment, and this depth needs to be
thick enough to come in contact with the protrusion 501. The
shallow portion of the groove 801 and the projection of the
protrusion 803 may have the same depth.
Next, the operation of the fixing part 100 will be described as a
whole. A direction that the second rotation member 104 rotates in
the direction orthogonal to the axial tube member 105, i.e., an
arrow R direction in FIG. 5 will be referred to as a "rotation
direction" hereinafter. The operation from a state where the
protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 is housed in the
groove 802 of the holder member 102 will be described below. That
is to say, the following description starts from the state of FIG.
10A. The starting state is the initial state. Moreover, the
position of each member in the initial state will be referred to as
the initial position.
(First Press by Operator)
The operator presses the knock member 101 downward.
The knock member 101 presses the pressing member 103 downward via
the support columns 401. After moving the distance L1 from the
initial position, the knock member 101 comes in contact with the
holder member 102 and stops.
The pressing member 103 receives a downward force from the knock
member 101 and moves downward. As shown in FIG. 10A, the pressing
member 103 is in contact with the second rotation member 104 at a
side 901. The second rotation member 104 receives an upward press
from the first elastic member 106 via the fixing member 110.
Therefore, to the second rotation member 104, a force to move in a
direction with less friction, i.e., along the tilt of the pressing
member 103 is applied so that the mountains and valleys of the
pressing member 103 and the mountains and valleys of the second
rotation member 104 perfectly fit each other. Consequently, the
second rotation member 104 receives a force in the rotation
direction. On the other hand, the protrusion 501 of the second
rotation member 104 is housed in the groove 802 of the holder
member 102. Therefore, when the second rotation member 104 rotates
in the rotation direction as the second rotation member moves along
the tilt of the pressing member 103, the protrusion 501 comes in
contact with a side 902 of the protrusion 803 and stops rotation.
Then, the second rotation member 104 does not rotate, and a force
to move downward of the pressing member 103 is transmitted to the
second rotation member 104. The pressing member 103 moves the
distance L1 downward.
The second rotation member 104 receives a downward force from the
pressing member 103 and moves downward. The second rotation member
104 moves the distance L1 downward. The protrusion 501 of the
second rotation member 104 also moves the distance L1 downward. A
length obtained by adding the distance L1 to the initial position
of a side 903 of the protrusion 501 at the initial position is
longer than the length L5 of the side 902 of the protrusion 803.
Therefore, the upper end of the side 903 in the rotation direction
of the protrusion 501 exceeds the lower end of the side 902 of the
protrusion 803. Consequently, the protrusion 803 is no more in
contact with the protrusion 501 in the rotation direction. Then,
the second rotation member 104 moves in the direction with less
friction. That is to say, the mountains and valleys of the second
rotation member 104 move along the tilts of the pressing member
103. Consequently, the second rotation member 104 rotates in the
rotation direction. As the mountains and valleys of the second
rotation member 104 perfectly fit the mountains and valleys of the
pressing member 103 as shown in FIG. 10B, the second rotation
member 104 receives a frictional force and stops rotating in the
rotation direction.
The holding member 111 receives a downward force from the second
rotation member 104 and moves downward. Since the second rotation
member 104 moves the distance L1, the holding member 111 also moves
the distance L1.
The convex 112 receives a downward force from the holding member
111 and moves downward. Since the holding member 111 moves the
distance L1, the convex 112 also moves the distance L1. The
distance L2 between the convex 112 and the rotation member 201 is
shorter than the distance L1. Therefore, in a case that the concave
202 is facing the convex 112, the convex 112 fits into the concave
202. On the contrary, in a case that the concave 202 is not facing
the convex 112, the convex 112 comes in contact with a spot other
than the concave 202 on a plane of the rotation member 201 with the
concave 202 opened. In this case, the convex 112 receives an upward
force from the rotation member 201. Then, the second elastic member
113 receives an upward force from the convex 112, whereby the
second elastic member 113 is compressed. The second elastic member
113 presses the convex 112 downward. The convex 112 presses the
rotation member 201 downward.
In this case, since the convex 112 does not fit into the concave
202, the rotation member 201 is not locked and is not inhibited
from rotating.
(Release of First Press by Operator)
The operator releases the knock member 101 to release the pressing
force.
The first elastic member 106 presses the holding member 111
upward.
The second rotation member 104 receives the upward force from the
first elastic member 106 via the holding member 111. The second
rotation member 104 moves upward. An upper slope side 904 of the
protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 comes in contact
with a lower slope side 905 of the protrusion 803 of the holder
member 102 as shown in FIG. 10C. FIG. 10C is a view showing a
fitting state of the holder member 102, the pressing member 103 and
the second rotation member 104, when the second rotation member 104
has moved toward the pressing member 103 (upward) and has comes in
contact with the protrusion 803 of the holder member 102. The
protrusion 501 moves in the direction with less friction, namely,
along the slope of the side 905.
Consequently, the second rotation member 104 rotates in the
rotation direction.
The protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 moves along
the slope of the side 905 of the protrusion 803, and moves into the
groove 801. As shown in FIG. 10D, the side 903 in the rotation
direction of the protrusion 501 comes in contact with a side 907 of
the protrusion 803 of the holder member 102, and stops the movement
in the rotation direction by the friction. Moreover, the upper side
904 of the protrusion 501 comes in contact with a lower side 908 of
the shallow portion of the groove 801, and stops the upward
movement by the friction.
Consequently, the second rotation member 104 stops moving in both
the rotation direction and the upward direction. Since the
protrusion 501 moves the distance L1 downward by the press of the
operator and then moves upward until coming in contact with the
shallow portion of the groove 801, the protrusion 501 finally moves
a distance L6 downward from the initial state and stops as shown in
FIG. 10D. Consequently, the second rotation member 104 also stops
in a state that it has been moved the distance L6 downward from the
initial state.
The pressing member 103 receives a force from the second rotation
member 104 and moves upward. When the protrusion 501 of the second
rotation member 104 hits the shallow portion of the groove 801 of
the holder member 102 and stops, the pressing member 103 stops
because it receives no upward force from the second rotation member
104.
The knock member 101 receives the force from the pressing member
103 via the support columns 401 and moves upward. When the
protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 hits the shallow
portion of the groove 801 of the holder member 102 and stops, the
knock member 101 stops because it receives no upward force from the
pressing member 103.
The holding member 111 receives a force from the first elastic
member 106 and moves upward. When the protrusion 501 of the second
rotation member 104 hits the shallow portion of the groove 801 of
the holder member 102 and stops, the holding member 111 also stops
because it is in contact with the second rotation member 104. As
described before, the second rotation member 104 stops at a
position moved the distance L6 downward from the initial position.
Therefore, the holding member 111 also stops at a position moved
the distance L6 downward from the initial position.
In a case where the convex 112 is fit in the concave 202, the
convex 112 is pulled upward by the holding member 111, and stops at
a position moved the distance L6 downward from the initial
position. As described before, since the distance L6 is longer than
the distance L2, the convex 112 stops at a position fit in the
concave 202. Therefore, the fixing member 110 locks the rotation
member 201. The rotation member 201 is inhibited from rotating. As
described before, the convex 112 and the concave 202 are placed so
as to fit each other in a state that the wires are not pulled
either rightward or leftward by the rotation member 201. Therefore,
in this case, it is possible to inhibit the operator from
horizontally bending the bending part 022 and tilting the tip part
023.
In a case where the convex 112 is not fit in the concave 202, the
second elastic member 113 compressed between the holding member 111
and the convex 112 is stretched. Therefore, the convex 112 does not
move vertically. Moreover, since the distance L2 is longer than the
distance L6, the second elastic member 113 presses the convex 112
downward. The convex 112 receives a downward force from the second
elastic member 113, and keeps pressing downward the plane of the
rotation member 201 with the concave 202 opened. In this state, the
convex 112 is not fit in the concave 202, and the rotation member
201 is not locked. Thus, in a case that the operator rotates the
rotation member 201 and the convex 112 reaches the position facing
the concave 202, the convex 112 receives a downward force from the
second elastic member 113 and fits into the concave 202.
Consequently, the fixing part 100 locks the rotation member 201 and
inhibits the rotation member 201 from rotating. As described
before, the convex 112 and the concave 202 are placed so as to fit
each other in a state that the wires are not pulled either
rightward or leftward by the rotation member 201. Therefore, the
fixing part 100 locks the rotation member 201 at a position where
the bending part 022 is not bent as well as the tip part 023 is not
tilted in the horizontal direction. Consequently, it is possible to
inhibit the operator from horizontally bending the bending part 022
and tilting the tip part 023 in the horizontal direction.
(Second Press by Operator)
The operator presses the knock member 101 downward.
The knock member 101 presses the pressing member 103 downward via
the support columns 401. After moving the distance L1 from the
initial position, the knock member 101 comes in contact with the
holder member 102 and stops.
The pressing member 103 receives a downward force from the knock
member 101 and moves downward. As shown in FIG. 11A, the side 901
of the pressing member 103 comes in contact with the upper side 904
of the protrusion 501 at a position of the distance L6 below the
initial position. FIG. 11A is a view showing a fitting state of the
holder member 102, the pressing member 103 and the second rotation
member 104, when the pressing member 103 has moved toward the
second rotation member 104 (downward) and has comes in contact with
the mountains and valleys of the second rotation member 104 in a
second press. Then, the second rotation member 104 receives an
upward press from the first elastic member 106 via the fixing
member 110. Therefore, to the second rotation member 104, a force
to move in a direction with less friction, i.e., along the tilt of
the pressing member 103 is applied so that the mountains and
valleys of the pressing member 103 and the mountains and valleys of
the second rotation member 104 perfectly fit each other.
Consequently, the second rotation member 104 receives a force in
the rotation direction. On the other hand, the protrusion 501 of
the second rotation member 104 is housed in the groove 801 of the
holder member 102. Therefore, when the second rotation member 104
moves along the tilt of the pressing member 103 and thereby rotates
in the rotation direction, the protrusion 501 comes in contact with
the side 907 of the protrusion 803 and stops rotation. Thus, the
second rotation member 104 does not rotate, and a force to move
downward of the pressing member 103 is transmitted to the second
rotation member 104.
The pressing member 103 moves the distance L1 downward from the
initial position.
The second rotation member 104 receives a downward force from the
pressing member 103 and moves downward. The second rotation member
104 moves the distance L1 downward from the initial position.
The protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 also moves the
distance L1 downward from the initial position. A length obtained
by adding the distance L1 to the initial position of the upper end
of the side 903 of the protrusion 501 is longer than the length L5
of the side 902 of the protrusion 803. Therefore, the upper end of
the side 903 in the rotation direction of the protrusion 501
exceeds the lower end of the side 907 of the protrusion 803.
Consequently, the protrusion 803 is no more in contact with the
protrusion 501 in the rotation direction.
Thus, the second rotation member 104 moves in the direction with
less friction. That is to say, the mountains and valleys of the
second rotation member 104 move along the tilts of the pressing
member 103. Consequently, the second rotation member 104 rotates in
the rotation direction. As the mountains and valleys of the second
rotation member 104 perfectly fit the mountains and valleys of the
pressing member 103 as shown in FIG. 11B, the second rotation
member 104 receives a frictional force and stops rotating in the
rotation direction.
FIG. 11B is a view showing a fitting state of the holder member
102, the pressing member 103 and the second rotation member 104,
when the pressing member 103 has fully moved toward the second
rotation member 104 (downward) in the second press.
The holding member 111 receives a downward force from the second
rotation member 104 and moves downward. Since the second rotation
member 104 moves the distance L1, the holding member 111 also moves
the distance L1 from the initial position.
The convex 112 receives a downward force from the holding member
111 and moves downward. Since the holding member 111 moves the
distance L1 from the initial position, the convex 112 also moves
the distance L1 from the initial position. Here, in a case that the
concave 202 is fit with the convex 112, the convex 112 remains fit
in the concave 202. Moreover, in a case where the convex 112 is in
contact with a plane with the concave 202 opened of the rotation
member at a spot other than the concave 202, the convex 112 keeps
pressing downward while being in contact with the aforementioned
plane.
(Release of Second Press by Operator)
The operator releases the knock member 101 to release the pressing
force.
The first elastic member 106 presses the holding member 111
upward.
The second rotation member 104 receives the upward force from the
first elastic member 106 via the holding member 111. The second
rotation member 104 moves upward. The upper slope side 904 of the
protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 comes in contact
with the lower slope side 905 of the protrusion 803 of the holder
member 102 as shown in FIG. 11C. FIG. 11C is a view showing a
fitting state of the holder member 102, the pressing member 103 and
the second rotation member 104, when the second rotation member 104
has moved toward the pressing member 103 (upward) and has comes in
contact with the protrusion 803 of the holder member 102 in the
second press. The protrusion 501 moves in a direction with less
friction, namely, along the slope of the side 905. Consequently,
the second rotation member 104 rotates in the rotation
direction.
The protrusion 501 of the second rotation member 104 moves along
the slope of the side 905 of the protrusion 803, and moves into the
groove 802. As shown in FIG. 10A, the side 903 in the rotation
direction of the protrusion 501 comes in contact with the side 902
of the protrusion 803 of the holder member 102, and stops the
movement in the rotation direction by the friction. Moreover, the
mountains and valleys of the second rotation member 104 come in
contact with the mountains and valleys of the pressing member 103
at the side 901, and the upward movement is stopped by the
friction. Consequently, the second rotation member 104 stops moving
in both the rotation direction and the upward direction. The second
rotation member 104 and the protrusion 501 return to the initial
position.
The pressing member 103 receives a force from the second rotation
member 104 and moves upward. When the upper side of the protrusion
502 of the pressing member 103 comes in contact with the upper side
804 of the groove 802 of the holder member 102, the upward movement
of the protrusion 502 is stopped. Consequently, the movement of the
pressing member 103 is also stopped. The protrusion 502 and the
pressing member 103 return to the initial position.
The knock member 101 receives the force from the pressing member
103 via the support columns 401, and moves upward. When the
protrusion 502 of the pressing member 103 comes in contact with the
upper side 804 of the groove 802 of the holder member 102 and stops
moving upward, the knock member 101 stops because it receives no
upward force from the pressing member 103.
The holding member 111 receives the force from the first elastic
member 106 and moves upward. When the protrusion 502 of the
pressing member 103 comes in contact with the upper side 804 of the
groove 802 of the holder member 102 and stops moving upward, the
second rotation member 104 is stopped. Since the holding member 111
is contact with the second rotation member 104, the holding member
111 also stops. As described before, the second rotation member 104
returns to the initial position. Therefore, the holding member 111
also stops at the initial position.
In a case where the convex 112 is fit in the concave 202, the
convex 112 is pulled upward by the holding member 111, and stops at
the initial position. As described before, since the distance L3 is
longer than the distance L2, the convex 112 stops away from the
concave 202.
Therefore, the fixing member 110 releases lock of the rotation
member 201, whereby the rotation member 201 can rotate.
In a case that the convex 112 is not fit in the concave 202, the
second elastic member 113 compressed between the holding member 111
and the convex 112 is stretched. Therefore, the convex 112 remains
in contact with the plane of the rotation member 201 with the
concave 202 opened until the mechanism for preventing slip off the
hole of the holding member 111 acts. When the mechanism for
preventing the convex 112 from slipping off the hole of the holding
member 111 acts, the convex 112 receives an upward force from the
holding member 111, and moves upward. The convex 112 separates from
the plane of the rotation member 201 with the concave 202 opened.
Also in this case, the fixing member 110 is not locking the
rotation member 201. Therefore, the rotation member 201 can
rotate.
In this embodiment, in order to stop the holding member 111 in the
vicinity of the rotation member 201 and make the convex 112 press
the rotation member 201 even if the convex 112 is at a position
where it does not fit into the concave 202, the second elastic
member 113 is placed above the convex 112 so that only a part of
the convex 112 can vertically move. This is because if the operator
rotates the rotation member 201 in a state that the convex 112 is
pressing the rotation member 201, the convex 112 automatically fits
into the concave 202 when the concave 202 reaches a position facing
the convex 112.
Therefore, if the above mechanism is not required, the ultrasound
probe of the present invention can also operate with a
configuration that the second elastic member 113 is eliminated and
the convex 112 is integrated with the holding member 111.
Further, in this embodiment, the fixing part 100 is configured so
that the rotation member 201 can be repeatedly locked and released
by repetition of press by the operator from one direction. However,
the fixing part 100 may have any configuration as far as the convex
112 of the fixing member 110 fixed with respect to in the rotation
direction of the rotation member 201 fits into the concave 202 of
the rotation member 201 in a state that the bending part 022 and
the tip part 023 are not bent either rightward or leftward. For
example, it is possible to configure to fit a rod-like convex
piercing the fixing member 110 into a concave of the rotation
member 201 by manually pressing the convex from behind.
Furthermore, in this embodiment, the fixing member 110 is provided
with the convex 112, and the rotation member 201 is provided with
the concave. However, the fixing member 110 may be provided with a
concave, and the rotation member 201 may be provided with a convex.
In this case, an elastic member is disposed behind the convex
disposed to the rotation member 201, and the operator rotates the
rotation member 201 in a state that the convex is pressing the
fixing member 110 as in this embodiment, whereby the convex can
automatically fit into the concave when the convex and the concave
face each other.
Thus, the ultrasound probe according to this embodiment can lock
the bend in the rightward and leftward directions only when the tip
part is not bent rightward or leftward. Consequently, even if the
tip part is inserted in the body cavity and the tilt of the tip
part cannot be seen, the operator will not lock the horizontal
bending part in a state that the tip part tilts rightward or
leftward. Thus, the operator will not insert or remove the tip part
inserted in the body cavity while the tip part tilts rightward and
leftward, and it is possible to reduce the risk of damaging an
insertion path by the tip part. Further, since the tip part can be
locked without tilting rightward or leftward, it is possible to
easily insert the ultrasound probe into the subject.
Second Embodiment
Next, an ultrasound probe according to a second embodiment will be
described. The entire configuration of the ultrasound probe
according to this embodiment is similar to that of the first
embodiment. Moreover, the operation of fitting the convex of the
fixing part into the concave of the rotation member is similar to
that of the first embodiment.
Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 12 and 13, a method for
pressing a fixing member of a fixing part of the second embodiment
in a rotation member direction will be majorly described below.
FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing a fixing part and a bending
part according to this embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view
showing the fixing part and the bending part according to this
embodiment. In FIGS. 12 and 13, members having the same reference
numerals as those of the first embodiment will have the same
functions.
In the following description, a direction along the axial tube
member 105 and seen from the rotation member 201 to a fixing part
150 will be referred to as an "upward direction." A direction along
the axial tube member 105 and seen from the fixing part 150 to the
rotation member 201 will be referred to as a "downward direction."
A direction rotating from right to left through the front in FIGS.
12 and 13, namely, an arrow T direction will be referred to as a
"rotation direction."
(Configuration of Fixing Part of Horizontal-Bend Knob)
The fixing part 150 includes a second rotation member 107, a
protrusion 108, and a fixing member 151.
The second rotation member 107 is fixed with reference to a
direction along the axial tube member 105. Moreover, the second
rotation member 107 is placed so as to be capable of rotating an
angle .theta. around the axial tube member 105 in a direction
orthogonal to the axial tube member 105. A position that the second
rotation member 107 is moved to the limit in a direction opposite
to the rotation direction will be referred to as a "reference
position" hereinafter. That is to say, the second rotation member
107 is capable of rotating the angle .theta. from the reference
position in the rotation direction.
The second rotation member 107 has the protrusion 108 on a plane
(lower plane) facing a holding member 152.
The fixing member 151 includes the holding member 152, a convex
112, and a second elastic member 113.
The relation of the holding member 152, the convex 112 and the
second elastic member 113 is similar to that in the first
embodiment.
The holding member 152 has a slope on a plane facing the second
rotation member 107, which comes close to the second rotation
member 107 in the rotation direction. The slope is placed so that
the protrusion 108 is positioned near the opposite side to the top
of the slope with respect to the rotation direction when the second
rotation member 107 moves the angle .theta. in the rotation
direction from the reference position.
Consequently, the protrusion 108 will not fall off the slope in the
rotation direction even if the second rotation member 107
rotates.
Furthermore, a vertical distance L8 (refer to FIG. 13) from a
vertical position of the protrusion 108 at the reference position
to a position of the protrusion 108 after the angle .theta.
rotation from the reference position is longer than a distance
between the convex 112 and the concave 202 when the protrusion 108
is at the reference position.
Therefore, in a case that the second rotation member 107 rotates
the angle .theta. from the reference position, the holding member
152 moves the distance L8 downward. In a case that the convex 112
and the concave 202 are facing each other, the convex 112 fits into
the concave 202 when the second rotation member 107 rotates the
angle .theta. from the reference position. In a case that the
convex 112 and the concave 202 are not facing each other, the
convex 112 comes in contact with the rotation member 201 and
presses the rotation member 201.
Further, a distance L9 is a distance enough for the rotation member
201 to rotate without the convex 112 in contact with the rotation
member 201. Therefore, the rotation member 201 can rotate when the
second rotation member 107 is at the reference position.
Next, the operation of the fixing part 150 will be described as a
whole. The following description is a description of the operation
from a state that the second rotation member 107 is at the
reference position.
A position of each member at the initial position will be referred
to as the initial position.
(Rotation in Rotation Direction from Reference Position)
The operator rotates the second rotation member 107 the angle
.theta. in the rotation direction.
The second rotation member 107 rotates the angle .theta. in the
rotation direction.
The protrusion 108 disposed to the second rotation member 107 also
moves from the reference position in the rotation direction. The
protrusion 108 moves on the slope of the holding member 152 in the
rotation direction, namely, in a direction ascending the slope. As
the protrusion 108 moves on the slope in the rotation direction,
the protrusion 108 gradually moves the holding member 152 downward.
The second rotation member 107 stops after moving the angle .theta.
from the reference position. The protrusion 108 stops near the top
of the slope on the opposite side with respect to the rotation
direction.
The holding member 152 gradually descends for a height of the slope
as the protrusion 108 moves on the slope in the rotation
direction.
After the second rotation member 107 moves the angle .theta. from
the reference position, the holding member 152 stops at a position
moved the distance L8 downward from the initial position.
The convex 112 fits into the concave 202 as in the first
embodiment, or presses the plane (upper plane) of the rotation
member 201 with the concave 202 opened.
(Rotation to Reference Position in Direction Opposite to Rotation
Direction)
The operator rotates the second rotation member 107 the angle
.theta. in a direction opposite to the rotation direction.
The second rotation member 107 rotates the angle .theta. in the
direction opposite to the rotation direction.
The protrusion 108 disposed to the second rotation member 107 also
moves in the direction opposite to the rotation direction from the
position near the top of the slope on the opposite side with
respect to the rotation direction. The protrusion 108 moves on the
slope of the holding member 152 in the direction opposite to the
rotation direction, namely, in a direction descending the slope. As
the protrusion 108 moves on the slope in the direction opposite to
the rotation direction, the protrusion 108 gradually moves the
holding member 152 upward. The second rotation member 107 and the
protrusion 108 stop at the reference position.
The holding member 152 gradually ascends for a height of the slope
as the protrusion 108 moves on the slope in the direction opposite
to the rotation direction. After the second rotation member 107
moves to the reference position, the holding member 152 stops at
the initial position.
The convex 112 releases the fit in the concave 202 as in the first
embodiment, or separates from the upper plane of the rotation
member 201.
As described above, the ultrasound probe according to this
embodiment can facilitate lock of the rotation member by the
operator with a simpler configuration than the first embodiment.
The simpler configuration makes it possible to manufacture the
fixing part at lower cost and more easily than in the first
embodiment.
Third Embodiment
Next, an ultrasound probe according to a third embodiment will be
described. The entire configuration of the ultrasound probe
according to this embodiment is similar to that of the first
embodiment. The ultrasound probe according to this embodiment is
different from the ultrasound probes according to the first and
second embodiments in that the horizontal-bend knob is fixed with a
magnetic force. Hereinafter a configuration of locking the rotation
member with magnetic a force will be described.
A fixing part according to this embodiment has an axial tube member
piercing the center of the rotation axis of the rotation member,
and a fixing member fixed to the axial tube member.
The rotation member is configured so as to rotate around the axial
tube member in a direction orthogonal to the axial tube member.
Moreover, the rotation member is fixed with respect to a rotation
along the axial tube member.
The fixing member is fixed with respect to both the direction along
the axial tube member and the direction orthogonal to the axial
tube member. Moreover, the fixing member is placed at a position
near the rotation member.
A magnet is attached to a plane of the rotation member facing the
fixing member.
A coil is placed on a plane of the fixing member facing the
rotation member. This coil is placed so as to be at a position
facing the magnet of the rotation member when the bending part 022
is not bent rightward or leftward and the tip part 023 is not
tilted rightward or leftward.
The fixing member is provided with a power source for generating
electric current. Moreover, the fixing member is provided with a
switch for causing the power source to generate electric
current.
When the operator turns on the switch, electric current is
generated by the power source and sent to the coil. When electric
current is sent from the power source to the coil, a magnetic field
is generated at the coil.
When a magnetic field is generated at the coil of the fixing
member, an attraction force acts between the coil and the magnet of
the rotation member, and locks the rotation member, whereby the
rotation member is inhibited from rotating. At this moment, the
coil is placed so as to be at the position facing the magnet of the
rotation member in a state that the bending part 022 is not bent
rightward or leftward and the tip part 023 is not tilted rightward
or leftward. Therefore, the rotation member is locked without the
tip part 023 tilted rightward or leftward.
As described above, the ultrasound probe according to this
embodiment can lock the horizontal-bend knob 013 by magnetic force
when there is no bend rightward or leftward. Consequently, it is
possible to create, with a simple configuration, a mechanism for
locking the horizontal-bend knob 013 only when there is no
rightward or leftward bend.
* * * * *